A decision on Chelsea’s new owners could come TODAY, but bidders this morning were anticipating to wait until next week. It is believed that final bids topped £3BN.

Kovacic will be unavailable too

Rudiger hasn't made his mind up yet. Part of why is he's waiting for Chelsea's new owner to be clear. He has been listening to other offers (including his brother-agent's visit to Barca). But he's already ruled out #MUFC and I don't see ten Hag's arrival prompting a U-turn.

EXCLUSIVE: Real Madrid are closing in on a deal for Antonio Rudiger.

New contacts were made after Chelsea’s win at the Bernabéu and Rudiger’s representatives are close to finding an agreement with the club. 🇩🇪⚪️


#CFC #ChelseaFC #Real #Rudiger #transfers

Exclusive: As I understand, Chelsea have a long-term interest in Christopher Nkunku and have scouted him for the past couple of seasons. #CFC https://t.co/Jm7dXb5XmN

Antonio Rüdiger will leave Chelsea on a free transfer as he can’t wait more than 2 months for new owners. No bid on the table. He’s always been respectful - but it’s time for a new challenge. It’s over. 🔵 #CFC

…Real Madrid are close to find an agreement to sign Rüdiger. ⚪️⏳

It’s understood that Rudiger has not been given a time frame by anyone at Chelsea as to when talks could re open again and that is a major reason he is leaving Chelsea.

Chelsea FC…

- Sign Tuchel a RWB ❌

- Give Tuchel a striker that doesn’t suit him ✅

- Sign Tchouameni ❌

- Bring in a washed Saul ✅

- Sign Kounde ❌

- Bring back Sarr ✅

- Bring in a LB ❌

- Recall Kenedy ✅

- Renew Rudiger’s contract ❌

- Let him leave on a free ✅

£230,000 a week for Rudiger was a fair offer from Chelsea if we are being honest. It’s also fair that Rudiger feels he deserves more. This CB situation at Chelsea is a complete and utter mess.

Neither Rudiger nor Christensen should be treated as snakes or traitors - that's childish and corrosive for two players who contributed to a European Cup last season. Not even close to Courtois situation. Demand the club doesn't allow a situation like this again.

I think Kalidou Koulibaly is the best #Rudiger replacement and possible upgrade. #CFC #Chelsea

https://t.co/gx9YTRTZwH

My thoughts on #Rudiger?

It’s Cobham season. Trust Tuchel.

#Chelsea XI to face West Ham: Mendy, Azpilicueta, Silva, Christensen, Loftus-Cheek, Kante, Jorginho, Alonso, Mount, Werner, Havertz

#CHEWHU | #CFC | @ChelseaFC

Trevoh Chalobah indeed starts in place of Andreas Christensen.

AC not warming up.. Perhaps toothache

Tuchel: “Reece felt some discomfort in his hamstrings and so he misses out today.” #cfc

Stomach cramps*

🚨🇩🇪| Antonio Rüdiger will sign for Real Madrid on a 4-year deal, there is no doubt. ⏳

Chelsea will be looking to replace him with several players, with Jules Koundé still the top priority. 🔵 #CFC

Sevilla’s Jules Kounde is Chelsea’s top defensive target this summer, with Leicester’s Wesley Fofana also on their radar.

Thomas Tuchel remains committed to Chelsea, new owner investment in the defence this summer will be key to make sure it stays that way.

Jules Koundé could solve Chelsea’s centre-back crisis as the France defender wants to leave Seville this summer and is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea are unable to buy or sell players until the takeover process is completed and there is a feeling in the dressing room that it is costing them key players and could plunge the head coach Thomas Tuchel’s future into doubt.